DOST-SEI is now accepting applications for the Engineering Research and Development for Technology (ERDT) Graduate Scholarship for the 2nd Semester of AY 2025–2026.
If you’re aiming for a Master’s or PhD in Engineering and related fields, this DOST-SEI ERDT Graduate Scholarship could be your way to higher studies and nation-building through science and technology.
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About the DOST-SEI ERDT Graduate Scholarship 2025
The Engineering Research and Development for Technology (ERDT) Graduate Scholarship is a flagship program of the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI).
This Scholarship Programs’ main goal is to produce a new generation of highly trained engineers and researchers who will help the Philippines achieve sustainable development, inclusive growth, and industrialization.
Through the ERDT, Filipino scholars are given the chance to pursue Master’s and Doctoral degrees in engineering and related fields. The program not only provides financial support but also invests in building the country’s human capital in science and technology.
The scholarship is offered in partnership with the eight ERDT consortium universities:
- Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU)
- Central Luzon State University (CLSU)
- De La Salle University (DLSU)
- Mapúa University (MU)
- Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT)
- University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD)
- University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB)
- University of San Carlos (USC)
By joining the ERDT program, scholars become part of a nationwide effort to boost engineering research, innovation, and technological solutions that can address real-world challenges in the Philippines.
Who Can Apply?
The ERDT Graduate Scholarship 2025 is open to aspiring engineers and researchers who are ready to pursue graduate studies full-time. To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Filipino Citizenship – Only Filipino citizens are eligible to apply.
- Age Limit – Applicants must be not more than 50 years old at the time of application.
- Educational Background – Must hold a BS or MS degree in Engineering or a related field.
- Graduate School Admission – Must meet the admission requirements of the ERDT-supported graduate program at one of the eight consortium universities
- Good Health & Character – Must be in good physical and mental health, with no pending criminal or administrative cases.
- No Other Scholarship – Scholars must not be a recipient of any other scholarship program.
- Willingness to Serve – Must commit to fulfilling the required service obligation in the Philippines after completing the degree (one year of service for every year of scholarship).
Special Cases:
- PhD graduates of a priority S&T program may apply for a second PhD degree.
- MS/PhD graduates (non-S&T related) may apply for a second MS/PhD degree.
Who cannot apply?
- PhD graduates (scholar or non-scholar) who wish to take a second MS program.
- MS graduates (scholar or non-scholar) in a priority S&T program who wish to take another MS degree.
Scholarship Benefits & Privileges
Becoming an ERDT scholar means receiving full support to focus on your graduate studies. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Education Support
- Free tuition and school fees – All academic costs are covered.
- Monthly stipend – ₱30,000 for MS scholars and ₱38,000 for PhD scholars.
Learning Support
- Learning materials & connectivity allowance – ₱20,000 per academic year.
- Research support grants – Includes laboratory equipment, related costs, and funding for research dissemination (₱75,000 for MS | ₱150,000 for PhD).
- Thesis/Dissertation grants – ₱60,000 for MS and ₱100,000 for PhD.
- Mentor’s fee – ₱36,000 for MS and ₱72,000 for PhD.
Additional Allowances
- Transportation allowance – One round-trip economy class ticket per academic year (for those studying outside their home province).
- Group accident and health insurance – Premium coverage while on scholarship.
| Entitlements | Master of Science (MS) | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and other schoolfees | Actual as billed | |
| Stipend1 | Php 30,000.00 / month | Php 38,000.00 / month |
| Learning Materials and/or Connectivity Allowance | Php 20,000.00/Academic Year | |
| Transportation Allowance2 | One (1) round trip economy class roundtrip per academic year | |
| Group Accident and Health Insurance | Premium | |
| Thesis/Dissertation Outright Grant | Php 60,000.00 | Php 100,000.00 |
| Research Support Grant3 | ||
| Research Grant (lab. equipment/ related cost)4 | (Php 114,000.00) | (Php 253,000.00) |
| Research Dissemination Grant | (Php 75,000.00) | (Php 150,000.00) |
| Mentor’s Fee | (Php 36,000.00) | (Php 72,000.00) |
2 Given only to students who study outside their home province.
3 Must be applied by the scholars and subject to evaluation and approval. Grant approved is subject to liquidation.
4 Not applicable to Master of Engineering scholars.
Special Features of ERDT
What makes the ERDT scholarship stand out are its unique opportunities beyond just tuition and stipends:
Sandwich Program
- Scholars can take part of their thesis or dissertation abroad in a partner university.
- Financial support can reach up to ₱1.2M, covering airfare, living allowance, books, insurance, and more.
Career Incentive Program (CIP)
- Designed for ERDT graduates who want to continue contributing to research after finishing their degree.
- Graduates are matched with DOST agencies or research institutions where their skills are needed.
Degree Programs Covered
The ERDT Graduate Scholarship supports advanced studies in engineering and related fields, including:
- Master of Science (MS)
- Master of Engineering (MEngg)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Straight MS and PhD programs (for qualified students entering from BS level)
Terms and Conditions of the Scholarship
Like any prestigious program, the ERDT Graduate Scholarship comes with responsibilities. Scholars must commit to the following conditions:
- Full-Time Study Requirement
Scholars must dedicate themselves to full-time graduate studies to ensure the timely completion of their Master’s or PhD degree. - No Outside Employment
While on scholarship, scholars are not allowed to work or practice their profession. This ensures that their focus remains on research and academic requirements. - Scholarship Agreement
Before receiving benefits, scholars must sign a formal Scholarship Agreement with DOST-SEI. This document outlines their obligations during and after the program. - Academic Performance Monitoring
The scholarship is performance-based. Scholars are evaluated every school term to make sure they meet the required academic standards. - Service Obligation
After graduation, scholars are required to serve in the Philippines for one year for every year of scholarship received. This ensures that the country benefits from the skills and knowledge gained. - Refund Policy for Non-Compliance
If a scholar fails to complete the program or does not fulfill the service obligation, they must refund the scholarship grant with interest.
Application Process:
In this section, you will find details on deadlines, requirements, how to apply, and more for the DOST-SEI ERDT Graduate Scholarship.
Be sure to review each part carefully to complete your application successfully.
Application Deadlines (Per University)
The DOST-SEI ERDT Graduate Scholarship follows strict application deadlines depending on the university. Make sure to apply early so you have time to complete all requirements.
- October 15, 2025 – Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Mapúa University (MU)
- October 30, 2025 – De La Salle University (DLSU), MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD)
- November 15, 2025 – University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB)
- November 30, 2025 – University of San Carlos (USC)
📌 Tip: Don’t wait until the last week! Application reviews can take time, and missing the deadline means waiting another semester.
Requirements Checklist
Here’s a handy list to make sure you don’t miss anything:
- ✔️ Accomplished application form
- ✔️ Narrative essays (research plan & career goals)
- ✔️ Three recommendation letters from professors or supervisors
- ✔️ Certified true copy of official Transcript of Records (TOR)
- ✔️ Birth certificate (photocopy)
- ✔️ Valid NBI clearance
- ✔️ Medical certificate (with PRC license number of physician)
- ✔️ Certificate of no pending administrative case
- ✔️ If employed: recommendation and permission to study or proof of resignation
- ✔️ Notice of admission and approved program of study (once accepted)
- ✔️ For lateral applicants: certification of earned graduate units from the university
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the DOST-SEI ERDT Graduate Scholarship 2025:
Step #1: Download the official Application forms → ERDT Application Form
Step #2: Check the list of supported programs → ERDT Supported Programs
Step #3: Read the full scholarship details → ERDT Brochure
Step #4: Prepare your requirements (application form, essays, recommendations, TOR, etc.).
Step #5: Submit your application via email to the ERDT Project Staff of your chosen university. (Can be seen on Where to Send Your Application Section)
Step #6: Send hard copies of your documents via mail to the same university. (Keep scanned copies for your personal file.)
Where to Send Your Application
Here are the official email addresses and contact persons per ERDT consortium university:
📌 Tip: Send your email application early and confirm receipt with the ERDT Project Staff at your chosen university. Don’t wait until the deadline to follow up!
Final Thoughts
The ERDT Graduate Scholarship is more than financial aid—it’s a commitment to push Philippine engineering research and innovation forward.
If you’re passionate about advancing technology and making an impact, don’t miss this opportunity to study, research, and serve the country.
References
- Engineering Research and Development for Technology (ERDT) Consortium. (2025, May 10). ERDT Scholarship is now accepting applications for 2nd Semester, AY 2025–2026! [Facebook post]. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/ERDTConsortium/posts/
- Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute. (2025). ERDT Brochure 2025 [PDF]. Google Drive. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1r0u44tYHWNlEuVs_ZfB6ee-f46M7FGtV/view
Note: We’re not your school’s official scholarship coordinator (except for our partners). Our guides are meant to support your application process, but always follow your institution’s specific requirements and instructions. Read full disclaimer below.
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Notice:
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